G.R.E.A.T.

The Gang Resistance Education and Training (G.R.E.A.T.) elementary curriculum is a skills-based curriculum designed as a precursor to the middle school curriculum. This component establishes the foundation that prepares children for the intensified content and cooperation exercises taught in the middle school curriculum, while developing a positive bond between law enforcement and youth. Reaching children at an earlier stage of development allows for a better transition into the middle school curriculum. The elementary curriculum has integrated National Learning English Language Arts Standards and National Health Standards and is based on effective research practices.

Goal
The goal is to prevent violence while developing a positive bond between law enforcement and youth during their early developmental years. The curriculum can be used in conjunction with and reinforcement of other prevention programs and as a precursor to the G.R.E.A.T. middle school curriculum.

Program StructureThe G.R.E.A.T. elementary curriculum was designed for fourth and fifth grade students. Children who have aggressive behavior in the elementary school years are more likely to display antisocial and violent behavior as adolescents and young adults. By providing prevention programs to students in elementary and middle school, it is believed that such programs have a better chance of affecting the developmental course of the problem behavior.

The Lesssons
The G.R.E.A.T. elementary curriculum consists of six 30- to 45-minute lessons designed to be taught in sequence. Each lesson is accompanied by a parent letter that the student takes home explaining the lesson and encouraging parent/student interaction.